Weston

Characteristics

Health & Longevity

Average Life Span: 12-15 years
The Weston is a crossbreed of the West Highland White Terrier (also called a Westie) and the Coton de Tuléar. Westons are typically healthy, but they may experience health problems that are common to both parent breeds.

Like many small dogs, Westons can suffer from patellar luxation, a condition in which the knee joint is easily dislocated, sliding in and out of place. This condition can cause discomfort, limping, and, in severe cases, lameness. Another joint issue Westons may suffer is hip dysplasia, common to many canines. Hip dysplasia is when the thighbone does not fit properly into the malformed hip joint. This is a degenerative condition that may lead to arthritis and lameness. Dogs with hip dysplasia should not be bred, so ensure that your puppy’s parents do not have a history of the condition. Although hereditary, hip dysplasia can be triggered by rapid weight gain or injury.

Another joint problem common to smaller breed dogs, Legg-Calve-Perthes, can also impact Weston Dogs. This disease involves the degeneration of the femur bone’s head, resulting in bone and joint inflammation and the disintegration of the hip joint. Legg-Calve-Perthes leads to discomfort, pain, potential limping, and the possible onset of lameness. Surgery may be required in severe cases.

Some Westons may experience Craniomanibular Osteopathy (CMO), a bone disease that results in swollen jaws. Dogs suffering from CMO may experience pain and difficulty opening their mouths and will be unable to do so in severe cases. Affected dogs may also experience swollen glands, drooling, and fevers that come and go. There is no cure for CMO, but pain and anti-inflammatory medications may make the dog more comfortable.

Lung problems and eye problems impact some Weston Dogs. Like their Westie parent, Westons may also be troubled by skin allergies or skin conditions such as dry skin, dermatitis, and yeast infections. A change in diet may help in many cases.

In general, the Weston is a healthy breed with a life expectancy of 12-15 years.

Temperament & Train-ability

With designer dogs, temperament is not guaranteed, because these dogs can exhibit any combination of characteristics from their parent breeds. However, the average Weston is an affectionate, loving, and loyal companion. He is also energetic, playful, and friendly with just about anyone. He is typically a joyful dog who is not aggressive.

The Weston can live in most climates, but he does not do well with temperature extremes. He functions better in very cold weather than he does in very hot weather, but be sure he is sheltered from the elements in either case. He should be an indoor dog and can thrive in an apartment. He does need plenty of exercise to maintain his health, but this can be done with some playtime and a few short walks each day. A total of about two hours of physical activity daily is ideal. However, much of this can be accomplished as the Weston walks and runs about the house; it does not need to be strenuous activity.

The Weston Dog does bark occasionally, but he can be trained to be quiet. He is brave, curious, and alert and can make a good watchdog who will warn his family of danger and attempt to defend them if the situation escalates. Although he can get aggressive in a dangerous situation, in general he gets along well with kids, strangers, other dogs, and smaller pets if properly socialized. If not socialized from a young age, some Weston Dogs may try to dominate other dogs of the same sex, but this can be easily rectified. With children in particular he is gentle, affectionate, and playful. For these reasons, Westons make great family dogs.

Training a Weston should not be particularly challenging. He is moderately intelligent and likes to please the people he loves. He also greatly enjoys positive attention. For this reason, positive reinforcement is key: favorite treats, extra playtime, and enthusiastic verbal praise will go a long way with the Weston. Be encouraging, firm, and consistent, and you should have an enjoyable experience training your pet.

Grooming

The Weston has a long, thick double coat and sheds minimally. Although no dog can be guaranteed as hypoallergenic, the Weston is about as “hypoallergenic” as they come and can be a good choice for dog lovers with allergies. The Weston’s coat is fairly easy to maintain, but it does need at least a weekly brushing to prevent matting and tangles.

Bathe your Weston as needed. If a skin condition develops, you may need to bathe him more often with prescription shampoo as directed by your veterinarian. Be sure to dry ears thoroughly after each bath.

Clip your dog’s nails as needed. Once his nails are long enough to make clicking noises as he walks, you know it is time for a trim. Be sure not to trim to the quick, as this can be very painful for your dog. Check your Weston’s ears weekly for signs of infection such as tenderness, redness, and odor. Wipe ears clean once a week as well. Brush your dog’s teeth at least three times a week to maintain healthy gums and prevent bad breath.

Diet

Your Weston Dog should eat about 1/2 cup-1 cup of high quality dry dog food each day, although the specific type and amount for your individual dog will depend on variables such as age, build, metabolism, and activity level. Split your dog’s daily portion of food into at least two separate meals.

Be sure that your dog always has access to clean, fresh drinking water, particularly in very hot weather.
 

Find A Weston Breeder

Weston Puppies For Sale

Adopt A Weston

Cost

The Weston is a somewhat rare breed of designer dog, so expect to spend some time searching for a breeder and perhaps even more time on a waiting list. In general, Weston Dogs cost around $1200, but this price can vary widely depending on factors such as breeder location, gender, and pedigree.

It is very difficult to find this dog for adoption.

Paws ‘N’ Pups Ranking

Paws ‘N’ Pups ranks every breed out of 4 with 1 being easiest to integrate into your life and 4 being the toughest – The lower the ranking the better.

Ranking takes into account a few basic factors including cost, skill level needed, high vs low maintenance and how critical regular training is to success. The Weston ranks a 2. Finding a Weston Dog is perhaps the hardest part; he is fairly healthy, does not require extensive grooming, and can adapt to most living situations. He gets along well with people, other dogs, and even smaller pets if properly socialized, and he is not particularly difficult to train.

 

West Highland White Terrier

Coton de Tulear

Poodle

Bichon Frise